During this workshop, participants will explore the meaning of independence as a researcher. For example, where and how does the transition take place from ‘recognised’ to ‘established’ researcher? How can this transition be supported? How do researchers profile and showcase themselves as having achieved independence? Is it important to make a distinction between ‘personal independence’ and research independence’?

The Vitae Researcher Development Framework (RDF) will be used as a framework for this session, using a current draft of an ‘independent researcher’ lens, which will be shaped and built on by participants during this workshop.

Topics covered

An overview of the ‘independent researcher’ project background

Exploring the needs and expectations of research staff during the transition to independence

The Vitae Researcher Development Framework (RDF) as a tool for identifying and developing the relevant knowledge, behaviours, and attributes of independent researchers

Workshop Themes

New approaches to enabling researchers to reach their potential and make powerful career choices

Working with PIs and supervisors to transform professional development for researchers and embed professional development in the research environment

Leadership development for researchers

Conference themes

Building institutional capacity for researchers’ professional development to maintain research excellence

Sustainable practice to support researcher skills, professional and career development

Outcomes

Understand the context for achieving and supporting research independence

A ‘research independence’ lens on the Vitae Researcher Development Framework

Format

The session is a mixture of presentation, interactive discussion and activities